Post Mortem Interval

Front

What is Post Mortem Interval (PMI)?

Back

The time that has elapsed since a person has died.

Front

What factors influence the rate of body cooling after death?

Back

Factors include environmental temperature, body fat, clothing, and air movement.

Front

What is livor mortis?

Back

The pooling of blood in the lower parts of the body after death, causing discoloration.

Front

What does 'fixed lividity' indicate?

Back

It indicates that the livor mortis has set in and will not change position.

Front

What is 'non-fixed lividity'?

Back

It refers to livor mortis that can still change position if the body is moved.

Front

How does body fat affect cooling rate post-mortem?

Back

Less body fat leads to faster cooling, while more body fat slows down the cooling process.

Front

What is rigor mortis?

Back

The stiffening of muscles after death due to chemical changes in the body.

Front

How does temperature affect rigor mortis?

Back

Higher temperatures speed up rigor mortis, while lower temperatures slow it down.

Front

What is the typical time frame for rigor mortis to fully develop?

Back

Rigor mortis typically begins within 2-6 hours after death and can last for 24-48 hours.

Front

What is the significance of body temperature in determining PMI?

Back

Body temperature can help estimate the time since death, as it cools at a predictable rate.